Whether you’re planning to catch some waves at world-famous beaches, take the kids to exciting theme parks, or enjoy romantic dinners with ocean views, I’ll help you find your ideal neighborhood. In this guide, I’ll share my insider tips about the best areas to stay, from luxury beachfront locations to hidden gems where locals love to hang out. Let’s discover the perfect spot for your Gold Coast adventure!
🏨 Best Hotels in Gold Coast:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise
- ✨ 5-Star: QT Gold Coast
- 🏨 4-Star: Sea World Resort
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Gold Coast Airport Motel
- 💸 Cheap: YHA Coolangatta Gold Coast
- 🏢 Apartment: Meriton Suites Broadbeach
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: RACV Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast
- 🏩 For Couples: Avani Broadbeach Residences
💁 Best Guided Tours in Gold Coast:
- Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour to Wave Break Island from AU$99 (⭐4.8/5)
- Gold Coast Parasailing Adventure from AU$85 (⭐4.9/5)
- Gold Coast Tandem Skydive from AU$299 (⭐4.7/5)
- Gold Coast Dinner Buffet Cruise from AU$95 (⭐4.5/5)
- Gold Coast Jet Boat Experience from AU$65 (⭐4.8/5)
Quick Guide to Gold Coast Best Areas:
- For first-time visitors: Surfers Paradise
- For food and shopping lovers: Broadbeach
- For nature and surf enthusiasts: Burleigh Heads
- For laid-back beach vibes: Coolangatta
- For luxury seekers: Main Beach
- For peaceful retreats: Gold Coast Hinterland
1. Surfers Paradise – Where to Stay for the First Time
The Heartbeat of Gold Coast. Surfers Paradise lives up to its name as the entertainment hub of the Gold Coast, where the energy is palpable from sunrise to well after sunset. I’ve found the best way to experience this vibrant precinct is by starting at the iconic, the main artery that pumps life into this coastal playground.
Beach Life. The star attraction is undoubtedly the 150-meter-wide stretch of pristine sand that extends nearly 10 kilometers in each direction. The beach is patrolled year-round, making it perfect for both swimming and learning to surf. During my morning walks, I’ve noticed locals hitting the waves as early as sunrise, when the beach is at its most serene.
Adventure Seekers’ Paradise. The area offers an incredible array of adrenaline-pumping activities. From indoor skydiving at iFLY to conquering the SkyPoint Climb at Q1, where you’ll ascend to Level 77 in a mere 42.7 seconds – one of the fastest elevator rides in the world.
Market Magic. Every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evening from 4-9 PM, the Beachfront Markets come alive with over 100 stalls. Here you’ll find everything from local artisan crafts to unique fashion pieces, all set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Water Adventures:
- Stand-up paddleboarding through the calm canals
- Jet boat rides for high-speed thrills
- Parasailing above the golden coastline
Insider Tip: Visit the markets after 7 PM when stallholders often offer better deals on their products.
Cultural Experiences. The entertainment precinct includes unique attractions like Infinity’s mind-bending maze of multi-sensory environments and Australia’s largest indoor gaming center at Timezone. For something truly different, I recommend the evening canal tours, where you can watch the city lights reflect off the water while learning about local history.
Budget Tip: Save money by purchasing a combined attractions pass if you plan to visit multiple venues. The HOPO ferry service costs just $3 and connects major tourist spots while offering great views of the city.
Seasonal Activities Table:
| Season | Must-Try Activities | Average Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Dawn surfing, night markets | $20-50 |
| Winter | Whale watching, indoor attractions | $30-80 |
| Spring | Beachfront festivals, water sports | $25-60 |
| Autumn | Sunset kayaking, cultural events | $30-70 |
Where to Stay in Surfers Paradise:
Best Hotels
- JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa – A luxurious 5-star resort featuring world-class amenities, including a lagoon-style pool, day spa, and multiple dining options. Perfect for those seeking an upscale beachfront experience in Surfers Paradise.
- The Langham Gold Coast – An elegant 5-star hotel offering breathtaking ocean views, sophisticated dining venues, and a world-class spa. Located in the iconic Jewel towers, it represents the pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Gold Coast.
- Beach House – A newly renovated beachfront property offering a homey atmosphere just 100 meters from the beach. Perfect for families or groups seeking a comfortable, self-contained stay with modern appliances.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise – Modern luxury apartments offering stunning ocean views, fully-equipped kitchens, and resort-style facilities. Ideal for both short and extended stays in the heart of Surfers Paradise.
- Novotel Surfers Paradise – A 4-star hotel centrally located in Surfers Paradise, offering comfortable rooms with ocean views, an outdoor pool, and easy access to shopping and dining options.
- voco Gold Coast – A sophisticated hotel featuring two swimming pools, spa facilities, and multiple dining options. Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, it offers both comfort and convenience.
Best Hostels
- Tequila Sunrise Podstel – A vibrant backpacker hostel offering affordable accommodation with a social atmosphere, perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking to meet fellow adventurers.
- Bunk Surfers Paradise – A popular backpacker hostel in the heart of Surfers Paradise, offering both dormitory and private rooms, with excellent facilities and a lively social scene.
- Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort – A budget-friendly resort offering a mix of dormitory and private rooms, complete with a pool and social areas, perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.
2. Broadbeach – Best Place to Stay in Gold Coast for Dining and Shopping
Food Scene. After living in Broadbeach for years, I can confidently say this vibrant suburb has become the Gold Coast’s ultimate dining destination. The moment you step onto Surf Parade, the aromatic blend of international cuisines fills the air, with over 100 restaurants and cafes offering alfresco dining experiences.
Local Markets. Every first and third Sunday of the month, wander through the Broadbeach Art and Craft Markets at Kurrawa Park. From 8 AM to 2 PM, more than 150 stalls showcase local produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. The ocean breeze and live entertainment create a perfect morning atmosphere.
Shopping Paradise. Pacific Fair, or ‘Pac Fair’ as locals call it, is truly a shopaholic’s dream. With 400+ stores, it’s one of Australia’s largest shopping destinations. I particularly enjoy the unique indoor-outdoor design, complete with hanging egg chairs and tropical landscapes.
Price Guide for Dining:
| Meal Type | Average Cost (AUD) | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | $15-25 | 7 AM – 10 AM |
| Lunch | $20-35 | 12 PM – 2 PM |
| Dinner | $30-60 | After 6 PM |
Shopping Districts. Beyond Pacific Fair, explore the Oasis Shopping Centre and Oracle Boulevard. The Broadbeach Mall offers a more relaxed shopping experience with boutique stores and local designers.
Budget Tip: Save money by shopping at the Oasis Centre, where you’ll find everyday essentials and local boutiques at more reasonable prices than the luxury stores at Pacific Fair.
Night Vibes. The dining scene transforms after dark, with sophisticated wine bars and tapas restaurants coming alive. The area around Oracle Boulevard becomes particularly vibrant, with outdoor seating areas filling up with both locals and visitors.
Cultural Mix. What I love most about Broadbeach’s culinary landscape is its diversity. You can start your day with Australian breakfast at a beachfront café, enjoy Asian fusion for lunch, and finish with modern Italian or Spanish tapas for dinner.
Where to Stay in Broadbeach:
Best Hotels
- Dorsett Gold Coast – A sophisticated 5-star hotel located in the heart of Broadbeach, offering stunning ocean views, world-class dining options, and modern amenities. Perfect for both business and leisure travelers seeking luxury accommodation.
- The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast – An iconic 5-star resort featuring multiple restaurants, a casino, outdoor pool, and spa facilities. Ideal for those seeking entertainment and luxury in one location.
- Meriton Suites Broadbeach – Luxurious apartment-style accommodation offering fully equipped kitchens, stunning ocean views, and resort-style facilities including indoor and outdoor pools.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach – An elegant 5-star hotel combining French luxury with local culture, featuring two pools, sophisticated dining options, and direct access to Broadbeach.
- Casino Residences – Modern apartments offering ocean views, fully equipped kitchens, and access to resort facilities. Perfect for extended stays and families seeking home-like comfort.
- Meriton Suites Broadbeach Studio – Contemporary studio apartments with stunning city views, modern amenities, and access to premium facilities including a pool and fitness center.
3. Burleigh Heads – Where to Stay on the Gold Coast for Nature
Natural Paradise. I’ve discovered that Burleigh Heads perfectly balances pristine nature with a buzzing coastal lifestyle. The crown jewel is undoubtedly the 27-hectare Burleigh Head National Park, where I often start my mornings watching the sunrise over the ocean while walking the Oceanview Track.
Local Culture. The heart of Burleigh’s charm lies in its vibrant James Street, where the atmosphere shifts seamlessly from morning coffee crowds to evening dining scenes. What I love most is how the street maintains its laid-back coastal vibe while offering some of the Gold Coast’s trendiest shopping and dining experiences.
Beach Life. The famous Burleigh point break attracts surfers from around the world, while the protected swimming areas make it perfect for families. During my visits, I’ve found the best spot is “The Point” – a grassy knoll shaded by ancient pine trees and pandanus palms, where locals gather for sunset picnics.
Food Scene Table:
| Dining Type | Price Range (AUD) | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Beachfront Restaurants | $30-60 | Sunset hours |
| Local Cafes | $15-30 | 7 AM – 11 AM |
| Food Markets | $10-25 | Weekend mornings |
Cultural Experience. Don’t miss the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, where I learned fascinating stories about the area’s indigenous heritage. The guided tours along the rainforest boardwalk offer unique insights into the Dreaming tales of Jellurgal (Burleigh Mountain).
Budget Tip: Pack a picnic and head to Tallebudgera Creek, just around the headland. The calm, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, and you’ll save money on beachfront dining.
Adventure Options. The area offers endless outdoor activities:
- Rainforest Circuit walk through subtropical forest
- Whale watching from Tumgun Lookout (June-October)
- Stand-up paddleboarding in Tallebudgera Creek
- Rock climbing at the Echo Beach boulders
Night Vibes. As the sun sets, Burleigh transforms into a sophisticated dining destination. On Sunday evenings, I always recommend heading to Justin Park, where local musicians and fire-artists create a magical community atmosphere.
Weather Note: The best time to explore the national park is early morning or late afternoon, especially during summer months (December-February) when temperatures can soar.
Where to Stay in Burleigh Heads:
Luxury Hotels
- Burleigh on the Beach – A 4-star beachfront apartment complex offering modern accommodations with stunning ocean views and direct beach access. Perfect for families and couples seeking a relaxed beach holiday in the heart of Burleigh Heads.
- 2nd Avenue Beachside Apartments – Luxurious 4-star beachside apartments featuring fully equipped kitchens, spacious balconies, and an outdoor pool. Ideal for extended stays with easy access to Burleigh’s cafes and restaurants.
- Boardwalk Burleigh Beach – Contemporary 4-star apartments offering panoramic ocean views, modern amenities, and a prime location just steps from the beach and Burleigh Head National Park.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Burleigh Palms Holiday Apartments – Comfortable 3-star holiday apartments featuring a tropical pool setting, BBQ facilities, and spacious living areas. Great for families seeking value accommodation near the beach.
- Horizons Holiday Apartments – A 3-star resort offering self-contained apartments with ocean views, heated pool, and tennis court. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting beachfront accommodation.
- Aussie Resort – A laid-back 3-star resort featuring comfortable apartments with full kitchens, an outdoor pool, and BBQ area. Ideal for casual beach holidays with excellent value for money.
4. Coolangatta – Where to Stay in the Gold Coast near the Airport
Beach Life. If you’re looking for one of the best places to stay on the Gold Coast, Coolangatta offers the perfect blend of stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Located on Australia’s east coast, this southernmost suburb boasts world-class waves and panoramic ocean views, making it a surfer’s paradise with some of Australia’s finest breaks.
Famous Surf Spots. The crown jewel is the legendary Superbank, a two-kilometer stretch that connects several iconic breaks:
- Snapper Rocks: Home to world-class waves and international surfing competitions
- Rainbow Bay: Perfect for longboarding and beginners
- Greenmount Point: Offers mellow waves ideal for learning
- Kirra Point: Famous for its fast, hollow tubes
Local Atmosphere. Unlike bustling Surfers Paradise, Coolangatta maintains a relaxed coastal vibe. The area features vibrant restaurants and bars along Marine Parade, while still preserving its residential charm. For those visiting for the first time, this popular area offers a great balance between tourist amenities and local lifestyle.
Price Guide for Activities:
| Activity | Cost (AUD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Surf Lessons | $60-70 | 1.5 hours |
| Board Rental | $25-40 | Per day |
| Private Coaching | $140-180 | 2 hours |
Around the Area. Different areas around Coolangatta offer unique experiences. Take the whole family to nearby Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or explore the beaches along the coastline. The central area provides easy access to various attractions while maintaining a less touristy atmosphere than other Gold Coast spots.
Safety Note. As one of the top areas on the Gold Coast, the beach is patrolled year-round between 8 AM and 5 PM. The Greenmount headland provides natural protection, creating ideal conditions for outdoor swimming and water activities.
Where to Stay in Coolangatta:
Top Hotels
- Greenmount Beach House – Greenmount Beach House is a 4-star beachfront property offering stunning ocean views and direct beach access. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed coastal getaway with modern amenities and proximity to Coolangatta’s attractions.
- Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites – Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites is a 4-star resort featuring spacious apartments with ocean views, lagoon-style pools, and a prime location near Coolangatta Beach. It’s ideal for families and couples looking for a comfortable, self-contained stay.
- Points North Apartments – Points North Apartments offers 4-star luxury beachfront accommodation with panoramic ocean views, fully-equipped kitchens, and resort-style facilities. It’s perfect for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience in Coolangatta.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Meridian Tower Kirra Beach – Meridian Tower Kirra Beach is a 3-star apartment complex offering spacious units with ocean views, an outdoor pool, and easy access to Kirra Beach. It’s great for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on location or comfort.
- Pure Kirra – Pure Kirra is a 3-star beachfront property featuring modern apartments with balconies overlooking Kirra Beach. It offers a rooftop terrace and BBQ area, making it ideal for relaxed, self-catering holidays.
- The Bay Apartments Coolangatta – The Bay Apartments Coolangatta is a 3-star property offering self-contained apartments with ocean or hinterland views. Located near Coolangatta Beach, it provides a comfortable and affordable base for exploring the southern Gold Coast.
5. Main Beach – Best for Beachside Living
Luxury Living. Main Beach perfectly balances sophisticated coastal living with a relaxed beachside atmosphere. Nestled between the sparkling Broadwater and the Pacific Ocean, this upscale suburb offers a more refined Gold Coast experience just minutes from Surfers Paradise.
Beach Scene. The pristine white sandy beach stretches for kilometers, patrolled year-round by lifeguards. What makes this area special is how it maintains its quiet, local feel despite being so close to the bustling tourist centers.
Dining Excellence. Tedder Avenue, the area’s sophisticated heart, comes alive with trendy cafes and upscale restaurants. I particularly love exploring the tree-lined street in the evening when the alfresco dining areas fill with well-dressed locals and visitors enjoying fresh seafood and fine wines.
Price Guide for Main Beach Activities:
| Activity | Cost (AUD) | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Water Jetpack Experience | $150-200 | Morning |
| Whale Watching Tours | $99-130 | June-October |
| Paradise Jet Boating | $85-95 | Midday |
| Marina Dining | $100-150 | Sunset |
Insider Tip: Visit Marina Mirage during weekday afternoons when the luxury shopping precinct is less crowded and you can enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience.
Cultural Mix. The area seamlessly blends maritime activities with luxury living. From the prestigious Southport Yacht Club to the trendy boutiques, Main Beach maintains an air of sophistication while staying true to its coastal roots.
Where to Stay in Main Beach:
Top Hotels
- Imperial Hotel Gold Coast – A prestigious 5-star hotel offering world-class luxury with Italian-inspired architecture and design. Features multiple swimming pools, award-winning restaurants, and a private marina with stunning waterfront views.
- Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast – An iconic 5-star beachfront resort set amid tropical gardens with direct beach access, featuring extensive lagoon pools, sophisticated dining venues, and luxurious rooms with ocean views.
- Pacific Views Resort – A 4-star resort offering spacious apartments with panoramic ocean views, featuring a heated pool, tennis court, and BBQ facilities perfect for family stays.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Maldives Resort Main Beach – A 3-star beachfront resort offering comfortable apartments with ocean views, tropical gardens, and multiple pools, providing excellent value for money in Main Beach.
- Chidori Court – A 3-star property offering self-contained apartments with modern amenities, featuring a pool and BBQ area in a quiet location close to Main Beach attractions.
- Beachside Paradise – Modern beachfront apartments offering stunning ocean views, fully equipped kitchens, and access to resort facilities including a pool and garden area.
6. Hinterland – Best Place in Gold Coast for Rainforest
Natural Paradise. The Gold Coast Hinterland, often called “The Green Behind The Gold,” offers a stunning escape just 30 minutes from the coastline. This World Heritage-listed habitat spans 100,000 hectares of subtropical rainforests, waterfalls, and ancient Gondwana landscapes.
Adventure Options. The area features an extensive network of walking trails and natural wonders:
- O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk: 180-meter suspended walkway 15 meters above ground
- Natural Bridge: Ancient cave formation with magical glow worm displays
- Tamborine Mountain Skywalk: 1.5km elevated walkway through the rainforest canopy
Price Guide for Hinterland Activities:
| Activity | Cost (AUD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Guided Rainforest Tours | $85-150 | 4-6 hours |
| Glow Worm Cave Tours | $60-80 | 2 hours |
| Wine Tasting Tours | $140-180 | Full day |
Nature Walks. Lamington National Park offers 160km of well-maintained trails suitable for all fitness levels. The Twin Falls Circuit, named the best short walk in southern Queensland, takes about two hours to complete and passes behind two spectacular waterfalls.
Budget Tip: Pack a picnic and explore the free walking trails in Springbrook National Park instead of taking guided tours.
Wildlife Experience. The rainforest teems with unique Australian wildlife, including colorful parrots, wallabies, and ancient Antarctic beech trees dating back over 3,000 years.
Practical Tip: Download trail maps before your visit as mobile coverage can be patchy in some areas of the national parks.
Where to Stay in Hinterland:
Top Hotels
- Gold Coast Tree Houses – A unique eco-retreat nestled in the Gold Coast Hinterland offering luxury treehouse accommodation with stunning rainforest views. Perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape in nature.
- Doomben Ridge Farm House – A charming farmhouse retreat offering peaceful countryside accommodation with panoramic valley views. Features spacious rooms and a wraparound veranda perfect for watching sunsets.
- Songbirds Rainforest Retreat – An exclusive rainforest retreat offering luxury villas with private decks, surrounded by 51 acres of pristine rainforest. Features an award-winning restaurant and spa services.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Ten Acres – A boutique country estate offering self-contained accommodation with mountain views, featuring beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
- Clouds Chalet – A cozy mountain retreat offering stunning valley views, featuring modern amenities and a private balcony perfect for enjoying the natural surroundings.
- Avocado Sunset B&B – A luxurious bed and breakfast offering spectacular mountain views, gourmet breakfasts, and elegantly appointed rooms with private balconies.
Best Hostels
- La Dolce Vita – A Mediterranean-style retreat offering comfortable accommodation with beautiful garden views and a relaxed atmosphere in the Beechmont area.
- Austinvilla Estate – An elegant country estate set on 111 acres offering luxury accommodation with scenic valley views, perfect for special occasions and romantic getaways.
- Canungra Hotel – A historic country hotel offering comfortable accommodation with traditional Australian hospitality, located in the charming town of Canungra.
7. Helensvale or Coomera: Best Area to Stay in Gold Coast near Theme Parks
Theme Park Gateway. Helensvale and Coomera serve as the perfect base for theme park enthusiasts, offering convenient access to Gold Coast’s major attractions. Both suburbs are strategically located near Dreamworld, WhiteWater World, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Wet’n’Wild.
Transport Hub. Helensvale stands out as the main transport interchange, with the TX7 bus service departing every 15 minutes between 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM daily. This makes it incredibly easy to reach all the major theme parks without needing a car.
Travel Times Table:
| From | To | Transport | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helensvale | Movie World | TX7 Bus | 15-20 mins | Every 15 mins |
| Helensvale | Dreamworld | TX7 Bus | 20-25 mins | Every 15 mins |
| Coomera | Movie World | Bus | 15 mins | Every 20 mins |
| Coomera | Dreamworld | Direct | 5 mins | – |
Budget Tip: Save money by using a go card or go explore card for public transport, which offers 30% cheaper fares than paper tickets.
Practical Note. Both areas provide easy access to the Pacific Motorway (M1), making it convenient for those who prefer to drive. Free parking is available at all theme parks.
Insider Tip: Stay near Coomera station if you’re primarily interested in visiting Dreamworld and WhiteWater World, as they’re just minutes away. Choose Helensvale if you plan to visit multiple parks using public transport.
Where to Stay in Coomera:
- Gold Coast Oasis Villa – A comfortable 3-star villa in Coomera offering spacious accommodation with modern amenities and a private garden. Perfect for families visiting theme parks, with easy access to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World.
- Coomera Motor Inn – A convenient 3-star motor inn located in the heart of Coomera, offering clean and comfortable rooms with free parking. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting to stay close to Gold Coast’s famous theme parks.
8. Southport: Ideal for Sea World Visitors.
Central Hub. Southport, the heart of Gold Coast’s CBD, offers a perfect blend of business and leisure with its prime location near Sea World. The area’s crown jewel is the stunning Broadwater, a vast calm water estuary that creates a peaceful oasis for water activities and family outings.
Water Activities. The Broadwater Parklands provide endless entertainment options:
- Jet skiing and parasailing adventures
- Kayaking and fishing spots
- Protected swimming areas
- Family-friendly picnic facilities
Price Guide for Activities:
| Activity | Cost (AUD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Jet Ski Tours | $85-150 | 1-2 hours |
| HOPO Ferry | $10 | All day |
| Parklands Activities | Free | Unlimited |
Insider Tip: Visit the Broadwater Parklands early morning to secure the best picnic spots and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
Transport Hub.
- Bus route 705 takes just 10-15 minutes
- HOPO ferry service stops at both Broadwater Parklands and Sea World
- G:link tram provides easy access to other Gold Coast attractions
Cultural Mix. The area features a vibrant Chinatown precinct, hosting authentic Asian cuisine and regular cultural festivals. The annual Chinese New Year Celebrations bring spectacular fireworks and street festivals to the neighborhood.
Where to Stay in Southport:
Top Hotels
- Meriton Suites Southport – A luxury 5-star apartment complex offering stunning views of the Broadwater and modern amenities including a pool, spa, and fitness center. Perfect for both business and leisure travelers seeking upscale accommodation in Southport.
- Woodroffe Hotel – A sophisticated 4-star hotel in the heart of Southport featuring contemporary rooms, an outdoor pool, and proximity to shopping and dining options. Ideal for those wanting to stay in Gold Coast’s business district.
- Mantra at Sharks – A 4-star hotel offering modern accommodation with excellent facilities including a fitness center and multiple dining options. Located next to Sharks Events Centre with easy access to the Gold Coast’s attractions.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Palmerston Tower – A 3-star apartment complex offering comfortable self-contained units with city views and access to a pool and BBQ area. Great for extended stays and families.
- Southport Motel & Apartments – Comfortable 3-star serviced apartments featuring fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. Perfect for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home experience in Southport.
- Stunning View Apartments – A 3-star property offering apartments with panoramic views, modern amenities, and a convenient location close to Southport’s attractions and shopping areas.
Comparison Table of Key Areas
| Area | Best For | Highlights | Distance from Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfers Paradise | Nightlife & Beaches | SkyPoint Deck, Surfing | ~30 mins |
| Broadbeach | Families & Dining | Kurrawa Beach, Shopping | ~25 mins |
| Burleigh Heads | Nature & Trendy Vibes | National Park Walks | ~20 mins |
| Coolangatta | Budget & Surfing | Snapper Rocks | ~5 mins |
| Main Beach | Luxury & Marina Views | Tedder Avenue Cafes | ~35 mins |
| Hinterland | Nature Retreats | Rainforests, Waterfalls | ~60 mins |
Tips for Choosing the Right Area in Gold Coast
Location Priorities. When choosing your area in Gold Coast, consider your main activities. Helensvale and Coomera are perfect for theme park access, while Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach offer the best beach and nightlife combination.
Peak vs Off-Peak. The best time to visit is between May and October, when temperatures are pleasant and humidity is lower. To avoid crowds, plan your trip outside of:
- School holidays (especially December-January)
- Schoolies Week (mid-November to early December)
- Major events like the Gold Coast 600 in October
Weather Considerations:
- Summer (December-February): 21-28°C, high humidity, afternoon storms
- Autumn (March-May): 18-25°C, perfect for beach activities
- Winter (June-August): 12-21°C, sunny and dry
- Spring (September-November): 16-25°C, occasional winds
Budget Tip: Accommodation prices are generally lower in areas further from Surfers Paradise, like Coolangatta or the Hinterland.
FAQ ❓
When is the best time to visit Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is a fantastic destination year-round with nearly 300 days of sunshine, but autumn (March-May) offers the most comfortable temperatures and pleasant ocean conditions for swimming.
How many days do I need to enjoy Gold Coast?
A minimum of five days is recommended to experience the world-class beaches, sample local cuisine, explore the hinterland, and still have time to relax and enjoy the laid-back coastal lifestyle.
What should I pack for my trip to Gold Coast?
Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, high-protection sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for warm weather activities, plus a light jacket for cooler evenings especially during winter months.
How can I get around Gold Coast without a car?
The Gold Coast has an efficient public transport system including buses, trams (G-link), and trains, with the option to purchase a go card for discounted travel across all services.
What are the best areas to stay in Gold Coast?
Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach are perfect for those seeking high-rises and bustling nightlife, while Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta offer more laid-back vibes, and Currumbin is ideal for nature lovers.
